European Discovery | Start Amsterdam | Winter | Season 2024/2025

European Discovery | Start Amsterdam | Winter | Season 2024/2025

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European Discovery | Start Amsterdam | Winter | Season 2024/2025

12 Days Starting in Amsterdam and ending in London

Visiting: London, Dover, Calais, Amsterdam, Sankt Goar, Dinkelsbühl, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Baschi, Rome, Florence, Lucerne, Paris

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

WWHWE19

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 42

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Ready for the beginning of your sweet love affair with Europe? This trip uncovers Europe’s finest in 12 days, complete with Bavarian beer & a visit to a French perfumery. We'll discover Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Munich, Venice & Florence, flirting with many more destinations along the way, from a traditional German beer hall to lunch at Casale Polegri (on us). You’ll get a taste for all the best bits of the continent and travel through 7 countries in one trip. By the time you get back to London you'll be completely smitten.

Highlights

  • Explore the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover and Experience an evening canal cruise in Amsterdam

  • Discover Munich's famous Gothic clock and traditional Bavarian culture and Wine tasting in Germany's famous Rhine Valley

  • Visit the world's smallest country Vatican City and take an optional guided tour of the Vatican Museums including the Sistine Chapel

  • Learn the art of leather in Florence and enjoy a guided walking tour Experience the Swiss Alps and the city of Lucerne

  • Night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower for panoramic city views

Itinerary

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Day 1: London To Amsterdam

Location: London, Dover, Calais, Amsterdam

Accommodation Name: Ibis Schiphol Amsterdam Airport (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Your heart-pounding adventure kicks off today. Meet up with your Contiki posse & share notes on London town before hitting the road to Amsterdam. Shortly before we find our ferry for Europe, we'll be taking in the English coastline beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. They owe their gorgeousness to their composition of chalk - you're learning and we haven't even left the UK! Off the ferry, we arrive in the port town of Calais - French soil! We travel north via Belgium before reaching... Amsterdam! Tonight, after an included dinner and an optional evening canal cruise, the fun-famed Amsterdam is yours to explore in all its glory

Day 2: Amsterdam To Rhine Valley

Location: Amsterdam, Sankt Goar

Accommodation Name: Hotel Montag Sankt Goar (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Now it's time to pour some sunlight on the agenda & take in the beauty of canals, crooked buildings, obscure museums & a café culture like no other.  After the scenic journey of fairytale castles, vineyards and valleys, you'll be charmed before we even arrive in Germany's famous Rhine Valley. This back-in-time town is our wine tasting host for the evening.

Day 3: Rhine Valley To Munich Via Dinkelsbühl

Location: Sankt Goar, Dinkelsbühl, Munich

Accommodation Name: Wyndham Garden Munich Messe (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Too much grape juice last night? Not to worry, the prospect of this Bavarian hidden gem should lift your spirits as we travel south & swap wine culture for beer. Quintessential German experiences don't get much better than visiting this charming medieval town. We'll stroll the cobblestoned streets, checking out vibrant market squares and picturesque half-timbered houses along the way. Today our eyes will be treated to a famous Gothic clock, a charming old town & traditional Bavarian culture. You'll have the option to explore the side streets by foot and afterwards why not choose to explore one of the city's many beer halls, where you can try a stein of beer or even a pork knuckle!

Day 4: Munich To Innsbruck

Location: Munich, Innsbruck

Accommodation Name: Hotel Dollinger (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Goodbye Munich, hello mountains. We're hitting the road in search of lands so sweet they made The Sound of Music. After crossing through the Bavarian Alps, it's time to head to this famous Olympic town and your jaw will drop at the sight of the famous ski jump, and you'll have a chance to soak up the medieval old town atmosphere for the afternoon. Tonight, you can opt for a traditional Tyrolean show -  don't forget to try a piece of delicious Austrian strudel and some local schnaps!

Day 5: Innsbruck To Venice

Location: Innsbruck, Venice

Accommodation Name: Venice Palace (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up with the gorgeous snow capped Alps as your backdrop roamers, we have a bountiful breakfast and a floating city in Italy to tend to. Life's tough! You'll think you've seen enough beauty for one day after taking in the Central Austrian Alps & Brenner Pass en route to Italy. And then we'll arrive in Venice & your jaw will hit the floor over hidden lanes, story book bridges & a private canal boat ride.

Day 6: Venice To Rome Via Baschi

Location: Venice, Baschi, Rome

Accommodation Name: BB Roma Tuscolana (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Farewell floating city, but Italy, we're not done with you yet, our next destination the Eternal City of Rome is just around the corner. But first, we have an epic, included MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience to enjoy. Casale Polegri is set within the gorgeous town of Baschi, where we'll meet the Polegri family. These guys have run their vineyard and olive orchard for generations, and after giving us the grand tour, will serve us lunch under the Veranda. As we overlook the Tiber Valley, enjoying some of the most authentic Italian food we've ever tasted (topped off with the Polegri's very own wine, naturally), we might reflect that we've never had it so good. It's the kind of local travel experience you don't encounter every day (you're welcome). The afternoon will really take it up a notch as we uncover Italian icons in the country's capital of Rome as you get a glimpse of it's glory by night. Gelato, pizza and ancient monuments - perfetto!

Day 7: Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation Name: BB Roma Tuscolana (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. Hit the streets for your own discoveries. Learn a thing or two as you pass the Colosseum, throw coins in fountains and sip espresso in a pretty street watching Italian life float by.

Day 8: Rome To Florence

Location: Rome, Florence

Accommodation Name: Hotel Auto Park (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We may be hitting the road again, but we're not done with Italy just yet. We have one more city to lust over… The dome of Duomo Cathedral sits above the city, making certain we know we have arrived in Florence. Take a moment to take in the unique beauty of this beautiful city, where culture and la dolce vita is evident in every direction you look. We'll become history buffs on a guided walking tour, before we learn the art of leather. Tonight you can choose to begin your Tuscan love affair at an optional dinner - think olives, cured meats, crostini & wine.

Day 9: Florence To Lucerne

Location: Florence, Lucerne

Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Luzern City (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Say a fond farewell to Italy, and hello to the land of creamy chocolate, cheese and not to mention watches. Hello Switzerland! Swans float under wooden bridges, snowcapped mountains stand regally behind us & chocolate tastes like heaven on earth. You're in the Swiss Alps & you cannot wipe the smile off your face. Eeek!!!

Day 10: Lucerne To Paris

Location: Lucerne, Paris

Accommodation Name: Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's been sweet, but our time in Lucerne is up this morning. We're Paris-bound! Out with the altitude, in with the inner-city Parisian bliss. We'll jump back onto our coach to cross the border out of Switzerland and (back) into France. Lamp-lit bridges, a sparkling Eiffel Tower, & evening coffee haunts, tonight we fall in love with everything Paris. Our Trip Manager fills us in on the city's secrets, then to celebrate our first night in the city, we'll head up the Montparnasse Tower.

Day 11: Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's time to stroll the dreamy streets of Paris, moan over haute couture you can't afford, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral whilst juggling coffee and crêpes, & get artsy at the many museums of the Louvre. Just don't wear yourself out, you will probably want to get involved with a ticket to an iconic cabaret show and dinner. With your last night looming, make it one to remember in the city of lights.

Day 12: Paris To London

Location: Paris, Calais, Dover, London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise, shine, and soak up your last dose of Paris this morning over a coffee and croissant together, as we marvel at how much we've seen on this magical journey. It may be over for now, but these friendships and memories will last a lifetime.

What's Included

  • Accommodations

    Stay in a mix of hotels and hostels in various cities throughout the tour, including Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South, Hotel Montag Sankt Goar, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.

  • Meals

    Enjoy included meals across different locations, ensuring a taste of local cuisine.

  • Transportation

    Travel comfortably between cities and attractions in a modern, air-conditioned coach.

  • Guided Tours

    Benefit from guided walking tours in major cities like Florence, Rome, and Paris, offering insights into their rich history and culture.

  • Special Experiences

    Unique experiences such as wine tasting in Germany's Rhine Valley, a night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower, and a private canal boat ride in Venice.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Some Meals

    Not all meals are covered.

    Please refer to the itinerary for specific meals included.

  • Optional Activities

    Costs for optional activities are not included and must be paid separately.

  • Personal Expenses

    Expenses for personal items, souvenirs, and tips are not included.

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.

Dining Summary

  • 4 Dinner (D)
  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

FAQs

  • London: What currency do I need? For this trip, you’ll need just three currencies - the British Pound, Swiss Franc and Euro.
  • London: How do I know when to book tickets for non-included attractions in Amsterdam? If you're travelling before March 2025, this trip spends 1 night in Amsterdam. You will have free time in the morning of day 2 until 12pm, during which time you can book activities. After this time, we will head off to the Rhine Valley.From March 2025, this trip will spend 2 nights in Amsterdam and you will have free time in the afternoon of day 2 from 12pm - 3pm, during which time you can book activities. Of course, you can book other times during this day, but it might mean you miss out on other included activities or a coach transfer to the accommodation!

Included Experience

  • Amsterdam: Best way to break the ice? By breaking bread of course. You and your new besties can bond over dinner before heading out to explore.
  • Lorelei: It’s the stuff of legends. Literally. A singing mermaid named Lorelei is said to sit on the rock, enchanting fishermen before luring them to their demise. Eek!
  • Dinkelsbuhl: Seatbelts on! Today we're driving along 'Romantische Straße' AKA Germany's most scenic route, winding through picturesque medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Innsbruck: Snow-capped peaks. Pristine air. Chocolate-box buildings. Innsbruck is the answer to all of your Alpine travel wishes.
  • Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
  • Venice: Life’s all about the waterways here; there’s not an Uber in sight! Get some classic pics of the famous gondola boats.
  • Florence: See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery & Piazza della Signoria on a locally guided walking tour of Florence.
  • Lucerne: Check out the Wooden Chapel Bridge and the giant sandstone Lion Monument.
  • Paris: Take a dreamy jaunt around the city of romance. Fall in love with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre, Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Paris: Climb to the 56th floor of the Montparnasse Tower for an unbeatable vista of the ‘City of Light’.
  • Paris: Your chance to learn the art of fragrance at a Parisian perfume house. You know it makes scents! (soz).
  • Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
  • Baschi: We'll head to the rocky (but so picturesque) village of Baschi to visit Casale Polegri. Stroll around the vineyards and olive orchards on a short tour of the azienda agricola. We'll learn about the farming techniques used by the Polegri Family to harvest their fresh plants and fruit. We'll end the afternoon with a crunchy bruschetta topped with homemade extra virgin olive oil, focaccia bread with homegrown rosemary and vegetables. And of course, some risotto or pasta. All of this with a glass of their homemade wine and dessert. Happy tummy, happy life!

Check out our Q&As

  • What countries will we visit on the European Discovery tour?

    The European Discovery tour visits England, France, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

  • What are some highlights of the tour?

    Highlights of the tour include exploring the White Cliffs of Dover, an evening canal cruise in Amsterdam, wine tasting in Germany's Rhine Valley, visiting Vatican City, learning the art of leather in Florence, experiencing the Swiss Alps and the city of Lucerne, and a night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower for panoramic city views.

  • What type of accommodations can we expect?

    Accommodations include a mix of hotels and hostels in various cities throughout the tour, such as Ibis Budget Amsterdam City South, Hotel Montag Sankt Goar, and Ibis Paris Porte D'Italie.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Yes, included meals are provided across different locations, ensuring a taste of local cuisine.

  • What kind of transportation will be used?

    Travel between cities and attractions will be in a modern, air-conditioned coach.

  • Are there any guided tours included?

    Yes, the tour includes guided walking tours in major cities like Florence, Rome, and Paris, offering insights into their rich history and culture.

  • What are some special experiences included in the tour?

    Special experiences include wine tasting in Germany's Rhine Valley, a night-time tour of Paris including a visit to the Montparnasse Tower, and a private canal boat ride in Venice.

  • What is not included in the tour?

    Exclusions include travel insurance, some meals, costs for optional activities, personal expenses, souvenirs, tips, and airport transfers.

  • Where does the tour start and end?

    The tour starts in Amsterdam and ends in London.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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